Prospect Talent Score

Probability of Success

History

Eriksson came up through the Vastra Frölunda system at a steady pace. He first made his mark playing for their U18 team at the age of 15, but by the next year he was already a productive member of Frölunda's U20 squad.

In the 2002-03 season as a 17 year old, Eriksson went some growing pains. He had some extended stretches where he did not produce well, but those were offset by extended hot streaks ending in a net result of a point per game pace for the forward. He continued to be a key producer in the playoffs for his club, helping Frölunda's junior squad to capture the junior championship for the organization. With the good performance on the year, Eriksson was selected to Sweden's U18 WJC team. At the tournament, Eriksson led Team Sweden in scoring.

Eriksson was chosen in the second round, 33rd overall, of the 2003 NHL Draft by the Dallas Stars.

Talent Analysis

Strengths: Eriksson has a NHL-sized frame to go with a great set of skills to build upon. Most notably, he possesses excellent all-around skating ability, showing very good speed and agility in most situations. His overall offensive awareness and passing have also shown to be good assets. Not just a pure skilled forward, Eriksson will go into the dirty areas of the ice and play tough. Add to this skill and work ethic what appears to be a clutch scoring touch from international competition, and he becomes an even more intriguing prospect.

Weaknesses: Despite having a good deal of potential, Eriksson still has some problems to work out. Although his defensive awareness is admirable, he could still develop this part of his game further to be even more effective. Additionally, adding some bulk to his frame would be a great benefit to his game as it would allow him to play better along the boards and in front of the net. Bulk would also help improve his shot, which could use some work in technique and power.

Future

Eriksson was dealt by the Dallas Stars to the Boston Bruins in the deal that sent Tyler Seguin and two other players to the Stars.